In Anambra State, two men named Philip Avatus and Pius Dickson have been sentenced to seven years in prison each by a Chief Magistrate’s Court in Amawbia. They were found guilty of stealing iron rods worth N1.1 million in the state.
Both culprits, originally from Taraba State, admitted to the charges of conspiracy, theft, and malicious damage brought against them.
The Chief Magistrate, Mike Anyadiegwu, acknowledged their remorse and decided to hand down seven-year sentences to each of them, with the terms running concurrently.
The theft involved 120 pieces of 12mm iron rods used in road construction, and the incident took place on July 24 along the Amawbia-Nise Road.
These charges are in violation of various sections of the Criminal Code of Anambra State.
During the proceedings, Inspector Innocent Agu, the prosecutor, informed the court that the defendants carried out the theft on July 24 along the Amawbia-Nise Road in Awka, the state capital.
According to Agu, the defendants allegedly destroyed, severed, and stole the 120 pieces of 12mm iron rods meant for constructing drainage along the Amawbia-Nise Road in Awka.
These actions are considered offenses under Sections 495(a), 380(b), and 415 of the Criminal Code Cap 36 Vol. II Revised Laws of Anambra State of Nigeria 1991, as amended.